Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe admits Charlie Daniels' knee injury is a huge blow.

Howe expects Daniels' mental fortitude to be tested by the news he is already out for the season, but has backed the defender to fight back in similar fashion.

"Huge blow for him, huge blow for us," said Howe. "Our only thought at the moment is for Charlie and trying to support him through the initial shock of the news because we didn't anticipate it to be season-ending for him.

"But his knee is really swollen at the moment so we're having to wait for any surgery until that knee comes down in swelling.

"It's obviously a serious injury, he's going to need supporting through the initial phases of it. We hope the operation goes well and then he can begin his journey back.

"This club really does look after it's players very well on an emotional level and the supporters will rally around him. I think he knows how much he's loved here.

"It's been a really challenging year for him, these moments you show your toughness and your ability to be resilient, and Charlie - even in the early stages - has reacted very well.

"The team-mates have to support you, we have to support him, and he will come back from this I'm sure."